An aerial view of a coastal town with a long sandy beach, clear turquoise waters, and a mix of residential and commercial buildings.

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Our top choices for Scarborough cheap hotels

A multi-story hotel with balconies, a central blue column, and outdoor seating areas.

1. Scarborough Beach Resort QLD

Scarborough Beach Resort QLD
3.5 star property
Scarborough
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (574 reviews)
"beautiful suite - fantastic view - Just a pleasant stay"
Australia
Peter
The price is £135
includes taxes & fees
22 Nov - 23 Nov
Scarborough Beach Resort QLD
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Find out more about Scarborough

Discover cheap things to do in Scarborough

Scarborough, Queensland, is a hidden gem for budget-conscious travellers offering an array of affordable activities and experiences. Start your exploration at the picturesque Scarborough Beach, where you can enjoy a day of sun and surf without spending a dime. The beach is perfect for families, with shallow waters ideal for kids to splash about and plenty of space for a picnic on the sand. Just a short stroll away, you can visit the Redcliffe Jetty, where you can take in stunning views of Moreton Bay, and it's a fantastic spot for a leisurely afternoon walk or to watch the sunset. For those interested in nature, the nearby Botanic Gardens at the southern end of the peninsula offer free entry and beautiful walking paths, making it a lovely spot for a family outing. If you're keen on local wildlife, head to the nearby Moreton Island for a budget-friendly day trip, where you can swim with dolphins or even explore the sand dunes at little cost. As for dining, the area boasts several affordable cafés and fish and chip shops; don’t miss the famous fish and chips at the Scarborough Beach Hotel, where you can enjoy a hearty meal with an ocean view without breaking the bank. When it comes to accommodation, the areas around the beach are home to several budget-friendly hotels and motels that provide comfortable stays with easy access to all these attractions, ensuring you feel pampered while enjoying the convenience of nearby amenities.

How to get cheap hotels in Scarborough?

 

✅ The length of stay in Scarborough often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Scarborough's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Scarborough in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Scarborough, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Scarborough on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Scarborough.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Scarborough, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Scarborough. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £79*.

✅  Scarborough offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Scarborough on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Scarborough is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Scarborough Hotel Reviews

Royal On The Park

Royal On The Park

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel is getting dated but was clean, the staff were good and the breakfast was excellent"
Deborah 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Royal On The Park

Frequently asked questions

Which area of Scarborough, Queensland, Australia is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious travellers, the area around Scarborough Beach and the marina/foreshore in Scarborough, Queensland, offers the most practical options for affordable accommodation. This vibrant hub provides easy access to the beach and dining, ensuring a convenient stay without breaking the bank. While beachfront properties are generally pricier, venturing a little back from the Esplanade can yield significant savings, allowing you to enjoy the best of Scarborough at a more accessible price point.

Couples seeking a charming yet affordable escape will find the streets just off the main waterfront appealing. Here, you can discover hidden gems that offer a quieter atmosphere while still being a short stroll from the lively marina and its array of cafes and restaurants. Consider exploring options like Scarborough Apartments or the Indian Ocean Hotel, which Expedia highlights as budget-friendly choices without compromising on quality or location.

Families looking for value will appreciate the versatility of staying near Scarborough Beach. Many affordable accommodations in this area provide comfortable and spacious options, often with amenities that cater to a family's needs. The proximity to the beach means endless entertainment for children, and the numerous dining options ensure there's something for everyone's taste and budget.
How much does a budget hotel in Scarborough cost?
Budget hotel prices in Scarborough vary, but you can find a great deal from £79 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates. Typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
When is the most affordable time to visit Scarborough, Queensland, Australia?
The most affordable time to visit Scarborough, Queensland is generally during its shoulder seasons, particularly May and October to November. During these periods, you'll often find better deals on accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer months.

Specifically, May offers a lovely balance, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 24°C, making it pleasant for outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer. You can comfortably enjoy a stroll along the Scarborough Beach foreshore or explore the local markets without feeling overwhelmed by crowds. This time of year also means you're more likely to secure preferred booking times for popular experiences.

For an even more budget-friendly option, August stands out as the cheapest month for hotel bookings, with temperatures typically between 14°C and 22°C. While it's slightly cooler, it's still very agreeable for enjoying the Queensland sunshine and exploring the area's natural beauty, perhaps with fewer tourists around.
What free activities should we do in Scarborough, Queensland, Australia?
In Scarborough, Queensland, the best free options are predominantly outdoors, offering a delightful blend of relaxation and scenic beauty. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll or scooter ride along the tree-lined foreshore, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Scarborough Beach Park, a true highlight, provides ample shady areas for families, complete with playgrounds featuring pirate and railway themes that children adore.

For those seeking a more serene experience, a picnic on the foreshore or under the majestic fig trees in the park is simply divine. Watching the boats glide across the bay from the shore offers a peaceful, low-key activity, superb for unwinding. The calm waters near the beach park are ideal for a refreshing swim, a gentle paddle, or even a spot of fishing.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Scarborough for you.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Scarborough with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Scarborough. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Scarborough as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package. *Savings vary and are not available on all flight and hotel bookings.

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